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en-usCopyright 2015 AOL Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/world-of-warcraft-outlines-februarys-events/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/world-of-warcraft-outlines-februarys-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/world-of-warcraft-outlines-februarys-events/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
There are a lot of holiday events in World of Warcraft this month. February contains the Lunar Festival, Love is in the Air, the Darkmoon Faire... heck, it's also going to be the month that the next major raid opens up. Luckily for avid World of Warcraft players, the official site has put together a comprehensive schedule of the month's festivities, starting with the Valentine's Day event and the new raid opening tomorrow.

Astute readers will note that Blizzard suggests players prepare for patch 6.1 with no hints about when it's coming out. Whether this means it's going to be later in the month or won't be dropping until March remains to be seen. Then again, the raiding crowd will have plenty to do through the month with Blackrock Foundry, and if you like holiday events, you've got several of those coming around as well.

This Month in WoW
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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentdungeondungeonsendgameendgame-contenteventsfantasyin-game-eventsnewsnews-itemspreviewraidraidswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 02 Feb 2015 17:00:00 -0500319|21137983http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/diablo-iii-to-begin-technical-testing-in-china-shortly/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/diablo-iii-to-begin-technical-testing-in-china-shortly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/diablo-iii-to-begin-technical-testing-in-china-shortly/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
If you're a gamer in China waiting for Diablo III, you have undoubtedly been waiting for a very long time. Given the game's subject matter and the strict censorship policies of the government, it's not a surprise that it's taken a while to get moving. At long last there is a light at the end of the tunnel, however, as distributor Netease has announced that the censorship issues are finally resolved and the game is free to begin technical testing.

The testing phase will begin after the lunar new year is celebrated later this month. While the exact nature of graphical changes has not been disclosed, Netease stresses that the game will still be cool to look at, which could mean... almost anything, really. Still, at this point most of the players who have long waited for the game will just be happy to see it finally available within China.

MMO Culture
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action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopcensorshipchangeschinachinesecontent-censorshipd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasygraphicgraphical-changesgraphicslocalizationmultiplayernewsnews-itemsonline-multiplayerroguelikerpgMon, 02 Feb 2015 15:30:00 -0500319|21138068http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/rumor-blizzard-leak-reveals-next-world-of-warcraft-expansion-to/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/rumor-blizzard-leak-reveals-next-world-of-warcraft-expansion-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/rumor-blizzard-leak-reveals-next-world-of-warcraft-expansion-to/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
So, ready to jump on the rumor mill? Because it's churning out big stuff about Blizzard today. An anonymous source from inside the company has apparently claimed that World of Warcraft's next expansion has quadrupled its art outsourcing and is nearly feature-complete. The source also claimed that Hearthstone is doing banner business, with its next expansion set to release in April with a heavier PvE focus.

Darker news was revealed for the other franchises under the company's banner. The next part of StarCraft II is done but with no release date. Overwatch is in the midst of debates over business model and payment plans, with the studio pushing for a 2015 release but most likely going for 2016. Meanwhile, Heroes of the Storm has low expectations among the upper management and the Diablo III team has been "completely gutted." It's up to you you believe the rumors, of course, although come April, they might look rather plausible.

Reddit
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action-rpgactivisionbattlenetblizzardblizzard-all-starsblizzard-dotablizzard-entertainmentcash-shopccgccgmmod3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasyfirst-person-shootergothic-fantasyhearthstoneheroes-of-the-stormmobamultiplayernewsnews-itemsofpsonline-multiplayeronline-shooteroverwatchroguelikerpgrumorrumorsscsc2sci-fi-superherosciistarcraftstarcraft-2starcraft-iisuperherotcgtcgmmoteam-shootertrading-card-gamewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 30 Jan 2015 15:00:00 -0500319|21137260http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/world-of-warcraft-adds-selfie-support/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/world-of-warcraft-adds-selfie-support/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/world-of-warcraft-adds-selfie-support/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Were you afraid that with the addition of Twitter support in the next World of Warcraft patch you would be deprived of the joy that is taking selfies in-game? Worry no longer. The addition of the S.E.L.F.I.E. camera in patch 6.1 ensures that you can indeed log in, find a nice view, and then duckface at the camera before shooting off a character picture for all of your devoted followers. It's the best thing in the expansion so far.

Grabbing the item requires nothing more than a rare follower mission with no significant bells or whistles, with another upgrade mission available to pick up a set of various filters for the camera. Our sister site has a guide to making use of the new device, along with the requisite speculation that it will tie more directly into the Twitter integration. That feature isn't currently enabled, but it can't be coincidence that the new camera arrived at the same time, can it?

WoW Insider
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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentculturefantasyhumornewsnews-itemspatchpatchesscreenshotscreenshotsupdateupdateswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 27 Jan 2015 11:00:00 -0500319|21135408http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/world-of-warcraft-unleashes-the-full-patch-6-1-patch-notes/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/world-of-warcraft-unleashes-the-full-patch-6-1-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/world-of-warcraft-unleashes-the-full-patch-6-1-patch-notes/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
The first major patch for World of Warcraft's latest expansion is here! If by "here" you mean "on the test realm," anyhow. So not here at all. The opposite of here; still preparing to be here. One might even go so far as to say it's there. But the full (preliminary) patch notes for the test realm are available right now for those who'd like to see what's around the corner aside from brand-new Blood Elf models.

Garrison fans will have plenty of things to enjoy, with new visitors offering quests, new follower missions, and a new music box available. Players can also make use of a new Twitter integration feature and the new heirloom collection tab. Several classes are also seeing talent and balance adjustments, including across-the-board buffs to healer damage output for adventuring in the world. No word yet on when the patch will drop, but you can see what it contains from the patch notes.

Patch 6.1 PTR notes
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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentclassclass-balanceclass-mechanicsclassesfantasygame-mechanicsnewsnews-itemspatchpatchestesttest-patchtest-realmupdateupdateswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 26 Jan 2015 16:00:00 -0500319|21134749http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-why-arent-mmos-more-social/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-why-arent-mmos-more-social/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-why-arent-mmos-more-social/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
On Friday, Alex Albrecht from ZergID and formerly of the Totally Rad Show headed up a PAX Southpanel about the social side of MMOs, inviting Patrick Mulhern from Lorehound, Jenesee Grey from Camelot Unchained, and me to join to discuss community in MMOs and why it's seemed so absent in recent years. Meg Campbell from YouTube moderated the panel discussion, calling us the PAX MMO guild.

I admit that I considered naming this piece, "How Star Wars Galaxies did everything right and World of Warcraft did everything wrong" because I am obviously biased. But I really was completely surprised at how much SWG came up during the panel. Many former Galaxies players will tell you that there was a lot about that game that was pure crap, but when you talk about the social implementations of SWG, there just aren't many games that compare.

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activisionalex-albechtblizzardblizzard-entertainmentclassic-mmoconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpofantasyfeaturedgalaxiesjenesee-greylarry-everettmassively-event-coveragemeg-cambellpatrick-hulhernpaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-exposandboxsci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgowarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 26 Jan 2015 11:00:00 -0500319|21134518http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/wows-new-blood-elves-arrive-in-update-6-1/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/wows-new-blood-elves-arrive-in-update-6-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/wows-new-blood-elves-arrive-in-update-6-1/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Our sister site WoW Insider reports this morning that World of Warcraft's Blood Elves, left off the roster of races that received model revamps with the Warlords of Draenor expansion last November, will finally meet their new faces. Actually, it's just the bodies: The male faces aren't entirely done yet and currently share the same facial geometry.

"While we're excited to share with you our progress on these new models, I do want to stress that the models, textures, and animations are not entirely finished. Bug fixing and iteration can and will occur, and that's where you come in!" writes Blizzard QA on the US and EU forums, soliciting costructive feedback.

MMO Champion has full-size, head-to-toe bikini shots of both the female and male models because of course it does.

WoW InsiderMMO Champion, Blizz forums
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activisionbelfblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblood-elfcharacter-modelsdraenorexpansionfantasymmo-championpatch-6.1warcraftwarlords-of-draenorwodworld-of-warcraftwowwow-insiderFri, 23 Jan 2015 11:00:00 -0500319|21133958http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/world-of-warcraft-player-hits-100th-level-100/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/world-of-warcraft-player-hits-100th-level-100/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/world-of-warcraft-player-hits-100th-level-100/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Do you like playing World of Warcraft? Would you like to play a thousand levels of World of Warcraft? Because the player known as Watola did just that. Watola has 100 characters at level 100, a project that started during the exceptionally long twilight of Mists of Pandaria. With 20 characters already at the level cap back then, another 80 apparently seemed like a doable project, which started a cycle of very efficient leveling and copious use of recruit-a-friend tricks.

The method outlined on the the forums involves essentially rotating through full rest state on various characters and having a set plan of attack, along with using tank characters via recruit-a-friend to ensure that queues for dungeons are more straightforward. If you'd like to do the same, it's still perfectly functional now, although you'll have to do so knowing full well that you can never have a world-first level 1,000. (That seems a fair nod for the achievement.)

Kotaku100 Max Level Characters
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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentculturefantasylevellevel-caplevelinglevelsnewsnews-itemstop-levelwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 22 Jan 2015 14:00:00 -0500319|21133568http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/blizzard-has-begun-selling-heroes-of-the-storm-founders-packs/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/blizzard-has-begun-selling-heroes-of-the-storm-founders-packs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/blizzard-has-begun-selling-heroes-of-the-storm-founders-packs/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
If there's any company in the world that could launch a new MOBA title without needing to sell founder's packs, it would probably be Blizzard. But we'll never know beyond the dark realms of speculation, of course, because sales have already started on the founder's packs for Heroes of the Storm. And yes, that pack includes access to the current closed beta, if its $39.99 price tag didn't already create that implication in your mind.

Aside from beta access, the pack includes three heroes: Tyrande, Diablo, and Raynor, each with an alternate skin. Diablo gets to look fishy, Tyrande gets to look like a Blood Elf, and Raynor takes all of that high-powered armor off (which seems like a bad idea on a battlefield, but I guess that's why I'm not a space marine). You also get a mechanical golden wolf mount to ride around on the battlefield and 2500 gold for the game, which is more than enough money to buy anything that costs less than 2500 gold. Check out the pack trailer just past the break.

Founder's Pack
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betabeta-accessbeta-testingbetasBlizzardblizzard-all-starsblizzard-dotaBlizzard-Entertainmentclosed-betafounderfoundersfounders-packheroes-of-the-stormitem-packmobanewsnews-itemspay-for-betatrailertrailersvideovideosWed, 21 Jan 2015 11:00:00 -0500319|21132711http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/did-you-get-a-world-of-warcraft-anniversary-statue/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/did-you-get-a-world-of-warcraft-anniversary-statue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/did-you-get-a-world-of-warcraft-anniversary-statue/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
The World of Warcraft community is abuzz with the revelation that Blizzard is sending out a special thank-you to its most dedicated fans for its 10th anniversary: a physical 9" statue of an Orc.

Only fans who have been with the game for the entire ride are eligible to get the statue, however,. According to Blizzard's qualifications, "A player must have created a World of Warcraft account within 60 days of the game launching in the NA or EU regions and maintained their subscription or game time for all 10 years."

Our question today is, if you qualify for this, have you indeed received your spiffy statue? And do you have a picture to prove it?

JoystiqWoW Insider, Battle.net
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10th-anniversaryactivisionanniversaryblizzardblizzard-entertainmentfantasyorcstatuewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 20 Jan 2015 10:30:00 -0500319|21132168http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/18/wow-archivist-10-years-10-amazing-moments/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/18/wow-archivist-10-years-10-amazing-moments/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/18/wow-archivist-10-years-10-amazing-moments/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsWoW Archivist is a biweekly column by WoW Insider's Scott Andrews, who explores the secrets of World of Warcraft's past. What did the game look like years ago? Who is etched into WoW's history? What secrets does the game still hold? It first appeared on our sister site on January 1616, 2015, and is included here by permission.

In 2004, I bought a brown box with some discs inside it. On the cover was a close-up of a woman with crazy purple eyebrows and an angry bearded guy -- possibly Matt Rossi -- holding a gun. I didn't know anything about the Warcraft universe at the time. I'd watched someone play Warcraft III once (or was it II?). I remember chuckling at the peons' comments as they got to work. That was the extent of my experience.

I'd been playing Final Fantasy XI, and I loved the concept of an online world. I was hoping for a game that was more accessible than FFXI but with all the cool monsters, grouping, exploration, and loot. I never imagined the journey that I was about to take, the people I would meet, the opportunities that would become open to me as a result of that purchase. Many of us who played back then had no idea what was about to happen to the gaming world because of that brown box.

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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentscott-andrewswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowwow-archivistwow-insiderSun, 18 Jan 2015 12:00:00 -0500319|21130868http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/17/the-usual-suspects-dominate-decembers-raptr-rankings/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/17/the-usual-suspects-dominate-decembers-raptr-rankings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/17/the-usual-suspects-dominate-decembers-raptr-rankings/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Do you quote Raptr data when having unscientific discussions about MMO playerbase numbers? If so, rejoice, because here are some more numbers based on a sample size of dubious value!

The 10 year anniversary of World of Warcraft decided to wrap up in style with a special gift mailed to players that have been with the game since the very beginning. Players who created an account within 60 days of World of Warcraft's original launch and have maintained their subscription for all ten years have been mailed a very special physical gift -- a miniature recreation of the orc statue that graces the courtyard of Blizzard Entertainment's home in Irvine, CA. If you are eligible for the gift, you should receive an email indicating your gift is on the way at your registered Battle.net email address.

This is probably one of the nicer statues I've gotten from Blizzard. It looks very much like cast bronze, but I believe it's the same resin material used for their deluxe line of action figures. And although I say it's a miniature recreation, it's not that small -- the statue measures roughly 9" from base to tip of the taller axe. The base includes a message on the bottom that reads "The orc statue is a constant presence in our life at Blizzard Entertainment. It's where we meet to talk, to eat, to celebrate. As we celebrate ten years of World of Warcraft, we present this token of appreciation to you, stalwart adventurer. Thank you for being a constant presence in our lives as we adventure together."

Head to Battle.net for more information regarding eligibility for the gift, and be sure to check out our gallery for shots of both statue and box.

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10-year-anniversary10-year-anniversary-gift10th-anniversaryblizzard-entertainmentbreakingorc-statueveteran-playerswarcraft-statueworld-of-warcraftwow-orc-statueFri, 16 Jan 2015 18:00:00 -050099|21131095http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/world-of-warcraft-dispels-free-to-play-veteran-edition-rumors/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/world-of-warcraft-dispels-free-to-play-veteran-edition-rumors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/world-of-warcraft-dispels-free-to-play-veteran-edition-rumors/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Pretty much anything in the world will start the World of Warcraft free-to-play rumors these days, but this set of rumors had a bit of basis in reality, at least. Datamining uncovered references to a "Veteran Edition" for players, which prompted speculation that it would be a preferred account status for players who were on the free side but still had played in the past. It turns out that's not quite accurate, but it's also not entirely wrong: Veteran Edition will allow players to play for free, essentially, with Starter Edition restrictions.

Community Manager Bashiok addressed the rumors, explaining that while someone who never had played the game before could jump in with Starter Edition restrictions, veteran players could not. Veteran Edition, then, places almost all of the same restrictions on players, but it will allow you to roll up a new character and play through level 20 or at least log in to chat with friends. No word on exactly when this will be rolled out, but it should put the free-to-play rumors to bed until they start again in a month.

WoW InsiderForum posting
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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbusiness-modelbusiness-modelsf2pfantasyfree-to-playnewsnews-itemsrumorsspeculationstarter-editionsubscriptionsubscriptionsveteran-editionwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 16 Jan 2015 10:00:00 -0500319|21130747http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/diablo-iii-patches-2-1-2-and-ends-season-one/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/diablo-iii-patches-2-1-2-and-ends-season-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/diablo-iii-patches-2-1-2-and-ends-season-one/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
There's a lot happening around the rainbow-and-glitter landscapes of Diablo III, although perhaps the biggest is the implementation of Patch 2.1.2 to the game. This patch adds in powerful ancient items, increases the drop rate for legendary items, and gives players more survivability with additional life and higher life-on-hit percentages.

As Diablo III ushers in the patch, so it too prepares to say goodbye to the first season. The game is preparing to end season one and has posted a guide to aid players as they make the transition to the limbo that exists before season two. Season one is expected to end some time in early February, possibly February 3rd.

Players on both the PC and consoles soon will enjoy an event full of boosts, including additional treasure goblins and higher drop rates. These boosts will begin tomorrow and continue through Friday, January 23rd.

Patch 2.1.2, End of season one, Boost event
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2.1.2action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentboostcash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiieventfantasygothic-fantasyin-game-eventmultiplayeronline-multiplayerpatchpatch-2.1.2roguelikerpgseason-1season-oneseason-twoweekend-boostsThu, 15 Jan 2015 10:30:00 -0500319|21130204http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/blizz-publishes-wows-blackrock-foundry-raiding-schedule/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/blizz-publishes-wows-blackrock-foundry-raiding-schedule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/blizz-publishes-wows-blackrock-foundry-raiding-schedule/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
"It won't be long before you'll be able to take the assault against the Iron Horde to the next level in new raid content," Blizzard says in its latest World of Warcraft website update. The firm has released an unlock schedule for Blackrock Foundry with normal and heroic difficulties due for public consumption on February 3rd.

Mythic difficulty hits one week later while Raid Finder Wing 1: Slagworks (Gruul, Oregorger, and the Blast Furnace) debuts one week after that on February 17th.

Unlock schedule
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activisionblackrock-foundryblizzardblizzard-entertainmentfantasyraidingraidswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 14 Jan 2015 18:00:00 -0500319|21129873http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/heroes-of-the-storm-is-now-in-closed-beta/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/heroes-of-the-storm-is-now-in-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/heroes-of-the-storm-is-now-in-closed-beta/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
If you've paid attention to the people in the early testing for Heroes of the Storm, you likely saw a lot of feedback that amounted to surprise that the game was just in alpha. Of course, a game that feels polished and fun in alpha testing is in a good spot, which is why it should come as no huge surprise that the title moved into closed beta yesterday. Players who wish to test and have not already opted in should be sure to do so, as beta invitations are being sent out regularly.

The team behind the game also took a moment to explain a bit more going on behind the scenes with character design by looking at Thrall -- specifically, looking at top-down design for Thrall as he exists within Heroes of the Storm and bottom-up design using Thrall's Warcraft III abilities as a starting point. It's an interesting look at how the same basic character could wind up inspiring two different designs in the end and well worth a glance if you're crossing your fingers for that closed invitation.

A Tale of Two Shamans, Prepare for Closed Beta with Fighting Words
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betabeta-testingbetasBlizzardblizzard-all-starsblizzard-dotaBlizzard-Entertainmentcharactercharacter-designcharactersclosed-betadesigndesignsheroes-of-the-stormmobanewsnews-itemsWed, 14 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0500319|21129493http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/rumor-world-of-warcraft-may-be-prepping-a-free-veteran-editio/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/rumor-world-of-warcraft-may-be-prepping-a-free-veteran-editio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/rumor-world-of-warcraft-may-be-prepping-a-free-veteran-editio/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsWorld of Warcraft dataminers, while diving into the piles of information for the upcoming Patch 6.1, may have found game-changing evidence that the title is preparing a new free-to-play option.

The data files include several references to a "Veteran Edition," in a similar fashion to the already-existing Trial Edition, which allows players to level to 20 for free. The Veteran Edition has several limitations listed, including a level cap, money cap, and chat channel restrictions.

There's a lot of speculation going on right now as to whether or not the Veteran Edition will happen, and if it does what it will entail. MMO blogger Superior Realities theorizes that WoW will allow subscription-lapsed accounts to continue playing with the above restrictions.

MMO Champion, Superior Realities
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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbusiness-modelbuy-to-playf2pfantasyfree-to-playstarter-editionveteran-editionwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 12 Jan 2015 14:00:00 -0500319|21128468http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/blizzards-overwatch-bumps-into-trademark-issues/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/blizzards-overwatch-bumps-into-trademark-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/blizzards-overwatch-bumps-into-trademark-issues/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Remember when no one knew what Overwatch was and we were all speculating it was some sort of expansion based on the fact that the trademark had been filed? Oh, it was a more innocent time. Unfortunately for that trademark, it might be having a little bit of a problem after all, as it has come to light that another company filed an earlier claim for the trademark that would supersede Blizzard's use of the name due to likelihood of confusion.

The trademark that has already been filed is for an app that can be used to provide enhanced functionality for paintball matches, laser tag matches, and the like. Both trademark applications are currently suspended pending investigations, so it remains to be seen whether Blizzard will be pushing forward or will change the name of the game to something legally different. Like Oversupervise, for instance.

VG24/7US Patent and Trademark Office, NeoGAF summary
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blizzardblizzard-entertainmentfirst-person-shootergame-namesgame-titlegame-titleslegallegalitynamename-changesnewsnews-itemsofpsonline-shooteroverwatchsci-fi-superherosuperheroteam-shootertitletitlestrademarktrademarksMon, 12 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0500319|21128194http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/a-new-world-of-warcraft-comic-book-series-is-on-the-way/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/a-new-world-of-warcraft-comic-book-series-is-on-the-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/a-new-world-of-warcraft-comic-book-series-is-on-the-way/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Lore doesn't just have to come at you via in-game text boxes; there are other mediums, such as comic books, that can help you understand a particular fantasy world. For example, Dark Horse Comics is preparing a new World of Warcraft series to explore the ancient history of Azeroth.

World of Warcraft: Chronicle Volume 1 will be the first of several issues that trace the backstory of the world in a time before the Horde and Alliance. Blizzard COO Paul Sams says that it's being done to sate fan curiosity: "We often get questions from players who want to know more about the origins of the Warcraft universe, and the rise and fall of their favorite characters. This new series digs deeply into all of that -- we can't wait for players to read it."

Unlike most comic books, Chronicle Volume 1 will be a hardbound edition. The series will go on sale this November in comic shops and book stores.

Dark Horse
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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcomic-bookcomic-booksfantasygraphic-novelshistorylorepaul-samswarcraftworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraft-chroniclewowFri, 09 Jan 2015 19:00:00 -0500319|21127451http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/youll-soon-be-able-to-buy-wow-garrison-followers-directly/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/youll-soon-be-able-to-buy-wow-garrison-followers-directly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/youll-soon-be-able-to-buy-wow-garrison-followers-directly/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
If you missed out on snagging one of your World of Warcraft garrison followers or are willing to trade gold for time to complete your collection, then Blizzard is prepared to humbly accept your patronage. The studio announced on the forums that it will be adding a follower vendor in the next patch.

"One specific change I can share is in the next patch we're planning to add a new NPC to tier 3 garrisons who will sell followers you might not have access to based upon which buildings and outposts you've chosen," Community Manager Crithto wrote. "You'll be able to browse for followers you did not choose from quests and any you might have missed from failed missions."

WoW InsiderOfficial forums
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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmenteconomyfantasyfollowersgarrisonwarcraftwarlords-of-draenorworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 09 Jan 2015 14:00:00 -0500319|21127450http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/warcraft-movie-director-open-to-sequels-hints-at-wow-cross-prom/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/warcraft-movie-director-open-to-sequels-hints-at-wow-cross-prom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/warcraft-movie-director-open-to-sequels-hints-at-wow-cross-prom/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
In an interview with 2P.com, Director Duncan Jones said that there are no current plans for a Warcraft movie sequel, but he's open to the possibility if 2016's film does well: "Hopefully, if I have done my job right, people will want to know and see more! There is certainly plenty more to tell!"

Jones discussed how the movie will focus on the tragic first contact between Orcs and Humans, with heroes on both sides. "I think that for a world with so much newness to explain, this was a wise choice, especially when so many people in our audience may not know anything about Warcraft," he said. "It was important that some of our characters would be seeing the world fresh as well, and that the audience could see the situation through their eyes."

When asked about the possibility of a cross-promotional effort between World of Warcraft and the movie, Jones said that there are "many ideas" on the table right now but offered up no specifics.

2P.com
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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcross-promotionduncan-jonesfantasyinterviewmoviesequelswarcraftwarcraft-movieworld-of-warcraftwowwow-movieWed, 07 Jan 2015 17:00:00 -0500319|21126083http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/learn-to-beat-world-of-warcrafts-newest-raid-in-60-seconds/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/learn-to-beat-world-of-warcrafts-newest-raid-in-60-seconds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/learn-to-beat-world-of-warcrafts-newest-raid-in-60-seconds/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
We realize that there are a couple of different ways to treat that title, so let's be clear: This video guide will teach you how to beat all of the bosses in Highmaul in 60 seconds. It will not teach you how to take 60 seconds to defeat all of them. Yes, it could go either way, but did you really think you could drop World of Warcraft's raid in a minute of playtime? Nope, it's all about length of tutelage, not length of execution.

The even shorter version is the universal raid guide for the game, of course: Move out of the thing, stack up if you see everyone else stacking up, and kill the little things. But it's the fine details where everything is really decided. click on past the break and get a minute-long dose of how to not be the one responsible for wiping the group.

KotakuYouTube
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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentdungeondungeonsendgamefantasyguideguideshighmaulhumornewsnews-itemsraidraidsstay-out-of-the-badvideovideoswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 07 Jan 2015 10:00:00 -0500319|21126064http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/the-daily-grind-does-your-wow-garrison-feel-like-home/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/the-daily-grind-does-your-wow-garrison-feel-like-home/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/the-daily-grind-does-your-wow-garrison-feel-like-home/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
I've been a fascinated outside observer in regard to World of Warcraft's recent expansion and its much-touted garrison feature. I have no doubt that garrisons have filled a lot of purposes and gone all-out on functionality. It's certainly been a powerful carrot for Blizzard to wave in front of players.

But what I've been wondering is whether garrisons are so functional that they forgot to be personal. In other words, do garrisons feel like "home" in-game even if you can't decorate and customize them the way that you can in other MMO housing systems? Has your character finally set down roots or does this feel like just another mission hub?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

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activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentdaily-grindfantasygarrisongarrisonshomehousingopinionplayer-housingtdgthe-daily-grindwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 07 Jan 2015 08:00:00 -0500319|21124241http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/06/world-of-warcraft-brings-back-its-anniversary-event/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/06/world-of-warcraft-brings-back-its-anniversary-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/06/world-of-warcraft-brings-back-its-anniversary-event/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Did you get everything done that you wanted during World of Warcraft's 10-year anniversary event? If you did, great, but if you didn't... well, still great because you're getting another shot at it. Community manager Bashiok posted on the forums that the team is bringing back the anniversary event for one more week, starting today at 1:00 p.m. EST and ending on January 13th at the same time.

The reactivation is confined to the North American servers, so players elsewhere in the world hoping for more time with anniversary antics will be sadly disappointed. There's also nothing new in the event, so if you have everything, you can sit this round out. Otherwise, log in today and start celebrating a decade of the game's operation... like, again.